Man United target four more signings after Ederson deal agreed with Atalanta

Manchester United have agreed a deal worth an initial £35 million with Atalanta for Brazilian midfielder Ederson, making him the first signing of the Michael Carrick era, as the club maps out a five-player recruitment drive ahead of their return to the Champions League.

With United having played just 40 matches across all competitions last season, the hierarchy is acutely aware the squad will face significantly heavier demands in the year ahead. Beyond Ederson, The Times reports that several midfielders remain on their shortlist, with Real Madrid’s Aurélien Tchouaméni, West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes and Brighton’s Carlos Baleba all attracting interest. Elliot Anderson has also been mentioned, though Manchester City are understood to be the frontrunners for his signature.

A striker is also a priority following the permanent departure of Rasmus Højlund from Old Trafford, and a left-back is under consideration, with Newcastle’s Lewis Hall identified as a potential target.

Carrick has been clear, and the club’s leadership shares the view, that recruitment must not come at the cost of the academy pathway. The former United midfielder reintegrated Kobbie Mainoo quickly after taking charge in January, with the youngster rediscovering his best form. Players such as Shea Lacey were also handed opportunities last term, and families of academy prospects reportedly welcomed Carrick’s appointment as a sign that homegrown talent would be given a fairer hearing than under his predecessor Ruben Amorim, who was criticised for limiting Mainoo’s involvement.

United’s ability to fund their summer business will be aided by a series of high-profile departures. Manuel Ugarte, Joshua Zirkzee, Marcus Rashford and André Onana are all available for transfer, while Casemiro has already left after his contract expired. Jadon Sancho, whose loan spell at Aston Villa failed to reignite his career, is set to depart on a free transfer.